Using psychedelics to enhance social and cognitive abilities in schizophrenia
Official title: Psychedelic treatment to improve social and cognitive function in preclinical models of schizophrenia
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-11047513 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain psychedelics, like psilocybin and MDMA, might help improve social skills and thinking in people with schizophrenia, especially when used with regular medications, to find better ways to support those facing challenges with these symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006860-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047513 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience significant cognitive and social deficits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those who are not experiencing cognitive or social deficits may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of serotonergic psychedelics, like psilocybin and MDMA, to improve social and cognitive functions in individuals with schizophrenia. By examining how these substances interact with brain receptors and circuits, the study aims to understand their therapeutic effects, especially when used alongside traditional antipsychotic medications. The research will be conducted using preclinical models to gather insights that could lead to better treatment options for patients suffering from debilitating cognitive and social deficits associated with schizophrenia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatment options that significantly improve social interactions and cognitive abilities for patients with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using psychedelics for treating various neuropsychiatric disorders, indicating potential success for this novel approach in schizophrenia.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Powell, Susan B — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Powell, Susan B
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.